Cabins near Marquette, Kansas provide access to Wilson Lake and Kanopolis Lake, both reservoirs located in the Smoky Hills region of central Kansas. The area sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation with hot summers that regularly exceed 90°F and cold winters with temperatures frequently below freezing. Cabin rentals in this region typically require advance booking during peak summer season when water recreation draws visitors from across the state.
What to do
Hiking limestone trails: At Kanopolis State Park, the Buffalo Track Canyon Trail offers unique geological features. "We loved the hiking through limestone. We found couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mntn biking," notes one visitor who appreciated the natural formations.
Fishing for different species: The stocked kids' fishing pond at Little Bluestem Cabin Area provides an alternative to typical lake fishing. A camper shares, "The kids fishing pond is stocked with catfish, my kids loved catching something other than our usual blue Gill!"
Water recreation options: Wilson Lake offers clear water perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. "Kayaking over to the rocky cliffs is beautiful! Highly recommended!" writes a visitor who enjoyed exploring the lake from Big Bluestem Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront cabin sites: The proximity to water at Big Bluestem Campground ranks high among cabin campers. "Prime spot with large shade tree to block western sun. 20' from water's edge with path to drop kayaks in, swim or even sit lawn chairs into the water to cool off," explains one camper describing their site.
Clean facilities: McPherson State Fishing Lake maintains well-kept primitive sites. "Pretty little lake with nice camp spots. Free camping on a lake with tables, fire rings, some have shade, vaulted toilets," comments a visitor who appreciated the basic amenities despite the lack of hookups.
Family amenities: Salina Campground offers numerous activities for children beyond standard camping. "Kids enjoyed the basketball court, playground, and swimming pool. Clean bathroom/showers," notes one family, while another mentions, "They have a gator pulling train cart, pedal carts, a jumping pad, basketball hoops that are adjustable and an outdoor ping pong table."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Cabins at some locations experience road noise due to proximity to major highways. At KOA Campground Salina, a visitor observed, "Easy on/off; very close to interstate. A lot of road noise. Very peaceful other than that."
Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront cabin sites fill quickly, especially at Wilson Lake. A camper at Big Bluestem noted, "Self reg station (electronic) at the park as well as reserve early online."
Bathroom proximity: Some cabin areas require walking to reach facilities. At Kanopolis State Park's Sandyshore Campground, a camper pointed out, "The closest restroom is 1/2 a mile away up in Buzzard Bay though. For how popular this spot is, they need to build one closer to the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wichita's Spring Lake RV Resort offers numerous child-friendly amenities. A visitor noted, "Everything you could want. Swimming pool, chuck wagon on weekends. Free minutes golf, etc. A very nice playground for children."
Tick prevention: When hiking near Marquette cabin rentals, proper protection is essential. One camper at Sandyshore Campground warned, "Great scenery and nice trails (bring tick spray can be brutal out there!)."
Weekend planning: Cabin occupancy increases dramatically on weekends. A Kanopolis visitor advised, "Wish they would make these spots reservable as they fill up very quick since they are first come first serve. Especially on weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Big Bluestem, some loops offer more seclusion. "We stayed in a loop alone that could have had 3 other sites, next to beach access. Bathrooms were a bit of a walk but again, worth it!!"
Hookup availability: Cabin areas share campgrounds with varying hookup options. At Yarrow Otoe Area Campground, a camper explained, "Each campsite was equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, although I must say that some of the tables in this area were lacking a bit and needed some updating. The sites also included water and electric hook ups with reasonable spacing between sites."
Level sites: Most cabin sites feature level concrete pads. "Big Bluestem Campground Site 78! Prime spot with large shade tree to block western sun... Concrete pad. Clean showers a few hundred yards away," reports a satisfied camper.
